In a gesture of respect and solidarity, Vietnam has expressed deep condolences to the Holy See following the recent passing of Pope Francis, underscoring the late pontiff’s significant role in fostering closer ties between the Southeast Asian nation and the Vatican. The announcement, made during a press briefing in Hanoi on April 24, 2025, reflects Vietnam’s commitment to nurturing this evolving relationship, a bond that has seen notable progress in recent years.
A Nation Mourns Alongside the Catholic World
At the regular press briefing held by Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, spokesperson Pham Thu Hang conveyed the nation’s sorrow over the loss of Pope Francis. She highlighted that immediately upon receiving the news, Vietnam’s top leadership, including President Luong Cuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, sent messages of condolence to the Holy See on behalf of the Party, State, and people of Vietnam. “We would like to extend our condolences to the Holy See, as well as to the Catholic community around the world, and those in Vietnam” said Hang, emphasizing the shared grief felt across borders. 
Pope Francis, who passed away recently, was widely regarded as a unifying figure, not only for the global Catholic community but also for nations like Vietnam, where Catholicism plays a significant role in the social fabric. Hang noted that Vietnam “highly appreciates the role of His Holiness” in strengthening the relationship between the two entities, a sentiment that resonates deeply within a country home to over six million Catholics, one of the largest Catholic populations in Southeast Asia.
Pope Francis’ Legacy in Vietnam
Beyond expressions of sympathy, Vietnam’s tribute to Pope Francis included recognition of his contributions to the nation’s Catholic community and its broader societal development. According to Hang, the late Pope provided encouragements and guidance to Catholic dignitaries and followers in Vietnam, urging them to align with national goals and contribute to the country’s construction and progress. This message of unity and collaboration has been a cornerstone of his influence, fostering a sense of shared purpose between the Church and the state.
Pope Francis’ papacy, which began in 2013, coincided with a period of warming relations between Vietnam and the Vatican. His emphasis on dialogue and reconciliation resonated with Vietnam’s leadership, which has historically navigated a complex relationship with religious institutions under the oversight of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). His approach helped pave the way for incremental but meaningful steps toward greater religious freedom and cooperation, particularly for Vietnam’s Catholic minority, which has at times faced restrictions on religious practices.
A Milestone in Bilateral Relations
A pivotal moment in Vietnam-Vatican relations came during Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong’s visit to the Holy See in 2023. During this historic trip, Vietnam approved the operating regulations for the Resident Papal Representative and the Office of the Resident Papal Representative in Vietnam. This agreement marked a crucial milestone, formalizing the Vatican’s presence in the country and signaling a new chapter in diplomatic engagement. While Vietnam and the Vatican do not yet have full diplomatic relations—unlike many other nations with ties to the Holy See—this development was seen as a significant step toward that goal.
The establishment of a Resident Papal Representative, a role akin to a papal envoy, allows for more direct communication and coordination between Hanoi and the Vatican. It also facilitates dialogue on issues of mutual concern, such as religious freedom, education, and social welfare initiatives often spearheaded by the Catholic Church in Vietnam. Analysts view this as evidence of Vietnam’s willingness to engage with the Vatican on a deeper level, balancing its secular governance with respect for religious communities.
Historical Context of Vietnam-Vatican Ties
The relationship between Vietnam and the Vatican has evolved considerably over the past few decades, shaped by historical tensions and gradual reconciliation. During the mid-20th century, particularly following the Vietnam War and the reunification of the country under communist rule in 1975, ties between the state and the Catholic Church were strained. Many Catholic institutions faced nationalization, and religious activities were heavily regulated, reflecting the government’s broader policy of control over organized religion.
However, since the introduction of the Doi Moi economic reforms in 1986, Vietnam has adopted a more open stance toward religious groups, including the Catholic Church. The government began to ease restrictions, allowing for the restoration of some church properties and permitting greater participation in religious observances. Pope Francis’ papacy further accelerated this thaw, as his messages of compassion and social justice aligned with Vietnam’s aspirations for inclusive development.
Today, Vietnam’s Catholic community is an active participant in national life, running schools, hospitals, and charitable programs that complement state efforts in social welfare. The government’s acknowledgment of Pope Francis’ role in encouraging such contributions highlights a pragmatic partnership, one that benefits both the state and the Church.
Global and Local Implications of Pope Francis’ Passing
The passing of Pope Francis has reverberated across the globe, prompting reflection on his legacy as a reformer and advocate for the marginalized. In Vietnam, his death has sparked discussions within the Catholic community about the future direction of the Church and its relationship with the state. Many Vietnamese Catholics, while mourning his loss, express hope that his successor will continue to prioritize dialogue with nations like Vietnam, where the Church’s role is both spiritual and social.
Internationally, Pope Francis’ death raises questions about the Vatican’s future policies, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia, where Catholicism is growing amid diverse political landscapes. For Vietnam, maintaining the momentum of bilateral progress with the Holy See will likely remain a priority, especially as the country seeks to project an image of openness and tolerance on the global stage.
Local sentiment, as gauged from community reactions in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, reflects a deep appreciation for Pope Francis’ outreach. Parishioners attending Masses in his memory have spoken of his humility and concern for the poor, traits that endeared him to many in a country still grappling with economic disparities despite rapid growth. “He spoke for those who had no voice” said Nguyen Thi Lan, a Catholic resident of Hanoi, during a memorial service at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Vietnam-Vatican Relations
As the world awaits the election of a new pope, Vietnam’s leadership appears poised to build on the foundation laid during Pope Francis’ tenure. The formalization of the Resident Papal Representative’s role suggests a framework for sustained engagement, potentially leading to full diplomatic relations in the coming years. Such a development would not only elevate Vietnam’s standing within the Catholic world but also signal its broader commitment to religious pluralism, a key consideration as it navigates international partnerships.
Domestically, the Catholic community in Vietnam faces both opportunities and challenges in the post-Francis era. While the state has shown greater tolerance, issues such as land disputes over church properties and limitations on religious education persist. The next pontiff’s approach to these matters will likely influence the trajectory of Church-state relations, with Vietnamese Catholics hopeful for continued progress.
For now, Vietnam joins the global Catholic community in mourning a leader whose vision of unity left an indelible mark on the nation. As memorial services continue across the country, from the historic cathedrals of Hanoi to the vibrant parishes of Ho Chi Minh City, the question lingers: how will the legacy of Pope Francis shape the future of faith and diplomacy in this corner of Southeast Asia?
